"Playing a wrong-side-of-the-tracks kid in a town full of privileged peers, Francis found a terrific -- and difficult -- balance between tough and soulful," Thomas wrote. "I couldn't be happier that he'll be back with us for the film."

Capra appeared in all 64 episodes of the series, which ran from 2004-07 on The CW.

"I'm so excited to bring you guys the best movie possible and to see everyone again -- and to see you, I feel like most of you are family," the actor said in a video message to fans.